Republic of Ireland Under 21 manager Jim Crawford has confirmed that Rangers midfielder Charlie McCann has opted to play for Northern Ireland.
McCann, who made his Light Blues debut in last month’s 3-0 Scottish Cup win over Annan Athletic, has represented the Republic of Ireland at underage level.
Northern Ireland senior boss Ian Baraclough and his assistant Jimmy Nicholl have reportedly watched the former Manchester United U23 midfielder in recent weeks.
Read more: N Ireland manager Ian Baraclough reportedly monitoring international future of Rangers teen
And Crawford says the 19-year-old - who hails from Coventry and also qualifies for England - is now looking to represent Northern Ireland in his future international career.
"I spoke to Charlie a few weeks ago and it's unfortunate that he's looking now to go and play with Northern Ireland,” Crawford told the LOI Central podcast.
"This was the danger of the 2002 group that haven't been involved in international football for so long (on account of the pandemic).
"I had to say to Charlie that you have to realise that we have Gavin Kilkenny, Conor Coventry, Ross Tierney, Dawson Devoy, Will Smallbone, these players that are all really talented players.
"Charlie is a very good player as well but unfortunately he didn't get ahead of them.
"I don't know what Northern Ireland have said to him but he did say to me that at this particular time, that's where he's going.”
McCann, who scored 17 goals in 62 games across Manchester United’s U23 and U18 teams, represented England at U16 level before declaring for the Republic.
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